By KASONDE KASONDE –
MMD president Nevers Mumba and his predecessor Rupiah Banda have reconciled and pledged to work together in this year’s general election.
This was during a meeting that was facilitated by Northmead Assemblies of God Church, overseer Joshua Banda, Catholic priest Charles Chilinda and Evangelical Fellowship of Zambia (EFZ) executive director Pukuta Mwanza.
Bishop Banda said the meeting was fruitful as Dr Mumba and Mr Banda decided to put their differences aside and reconcile for the betterment of the country.
He said the two leaders resolved to reconcile and work together in unity after a successful consultation meeting with the clergy.
Bishop Banda said the meeting was held following an invitation by the party to help them settle their differences.
“It is encouraging to see politicians settle their differences amicably because it is important to focus on building the nation instead of dwelling on personal issues,” Bishop Banda said.
Reverend Mwanza of the EFZ said he was happy that the two had decided to iron out their issues for the sake of peace and unity of the country.
Rev Mwanza said the Church would continue to facilitate peaceful meetings for politicians in an effort to grow the nation’s democracy.
He said when politicians have conflicts with each other it affects the nation’s peace, hence the call for all Zambians, to strive to live in harmony and co-existence with each other despite different opinions.
Dr Mumba said the two had decided to reconcile and concentrate on bringing back all party members that had left due to the disruptions and confusions that had rocked the party.
“Mr Banda and I have decided to work together and address challenges of yesterday that destroyed our party, we have now flushed out our differences and are committed to work with each other in the August 11 elections,” Dr Mumba said.
Dr Mumba also extended an olive branch to other party members who left the party to rejoin and help rebuild the once strong party.